One of the world’s finest curlers is set to join Team Muirhead as a tactical coach.

Canadian Glenn Howard (53), who has four World Championship titles to his name, continues to compete at the highest level and now plans to help the Blair-Atholl skip build on recent success.

The partnership represents a major coup for Team Muirhead at a key moment in their bid to represent Team GB at another Winter Olympics, with PyeongChang 2018 next up.

“It is a massive boost to have Glenn Howard joining our team,” Muirhead said. “Having won four world championships he is a legend in the sport and someone I have always looked up to.

“His track record in the game demonstrates his calibre at the top level while he is still actively competing, which means we can have complete confidence that his tactical knowledge is 100 per cent up to date.

“That is exactly what we are looking for to help us build on the success we have already achieved.”

Howard still harbours ambitions of representing Canada at the 2018 Winter Olympics. But he is excited by the chance to develop his coaching career.

“I am honoured and humbled to be a part of the coaching staff for one of the best ladies teams in the world, Team Muirhead,” he said.

“I know what it takes to become one of the world’s best and more importantly what it takes to stay there.

“There are many sacrifices required but as long as the team has the belief in each other, the drive and commitment, goals can be achieved.

“I see these qualities within Team Muirhead. I believe that my experience can complement the work Team Muirhead has already been doing.

“This is an extremely talented team that I plan to help make better.”

British Curling’s performance director Graham Thompson knows the move can only be positive for the sport, saying: “Our programme is committed to seeking the very best possible support for those contending for Winter Olympic places.

“Glenn Howard’s vast knowledge and tactical expertise can benefit Team Muirhead tremendously and this consequently looks like an ideal fit.”